James Griffiths

Dynamic Sales Director with over 30 years of international experience in retail optimization and business development, particularly within travel retail and diverse geographic regions. Proven ability to transform loss-making operations into profitable ventures, expand market reach, and lead teams to exceed targets. Adept at forging strategic partnerships and driving sales growth through robust strategies and P&L management.

Eager to leverage extensive commercial acumen and leadership skills to enhance sales into a new UK based role.

Business Development Director - Condis Consultancy Travel Retail Services - Global

(2020-01)

• Spearheaded retail optimization consultancy for multiple Cruise Retail operators, focusing on category alignment and sales processes.
• Orchestrated Joint Venture operations across Europe/ME & Asia airports with a Travel Retail Operator, ensuring seamless transitions and sustainable environments with uninterrupted operations.
• Expanded product market reach by establishing distribution channels with numerous retail operators in challenging geographic regions, including diplomatic contract establishment with Embassies across Africa. Enhanced retail space utilization through the adoption of country-specific category management principles.

Regional CEO, Africa - FLEMINGO INTERNATIONAL - Africa

(2016-01 - 2019-01)

• Assumed full accountability for transforming a loss-making region into a sustainable EBITDA contributor.
• Improved overall business performance across 22 outlets, employing 300 staff in 10 countries.
• Cultivated productive partnerships with key stakeholders and was appointed to the Board of Directors. Devised strategic plans that enhanced product competitiveness, customer satisfaction, and staff engagement.
• Increased P&L by overhauling all cost center operations.

Chief Operating Officer - FLEMINGO INTERNATIONAL - India

(2014-01 - 2016-01)

• Directed operations, encompassing sales and purchasing, across 11 airports and 4 seaports.
• Implemented new strategies to significantly improve profitability.
• Motivated and supervised a team of 25 direct reports and 350 indirect reports.
• Secured 8 airport tenders, enhancing retail concepts and presence.
• Introduced key promotional strategies that delivered marginal but consistent growth.

Head of Retail - AER RIANTA INTERNATIONAL - India, Bahrain, Cyprus

(2011-01 - 2014-01)

• Acquired extensive operational experience across multiple retail sites.
• Managed all store activities within retail spaces ranging from 2,000 m2 to 5,000 m2.
• Developed individual and team performance levels for up to 400 staff members.
• Exceeded expectations by delivering annual sales revenues exceeding $80m in the Bahrain Duty Free.

Project Director - AER RIANTA INTERNATIONAL - Iran

(2010-01 - 2011-01)

• Oversaw the operations of 3 international duty-free stores.
• Achieved a 20% increase in like-for-like sales through strategic initiatives.
• Delivered significant improvements in supply chain contracts with global brands.

Retail Operations Manager - AER RIANTA INTERNATIONAL - Egypt

(2007-01 - 2010-01)

• Substantially improved profitability levels across emerging markets in 4 major airports.
• Increased strategic alignment by establishing innovative programs that incorporated best practices.

Senior Brand Manager - MONSOON | ACCESSORIZE - Saudi Arabia

(2006-01 - 2007-01)

Retail Sales Manager - STARBOARD CRUISE SERVICES - Florida

(1993-01 - 2005-01)

Store Manager - NEXT RETAIL LTD - UK

(1987-01 - 1992-01)

Post Graduate Degree - Sterling University (2008-01 - 2010-01)